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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define a Meditative Living Environment

Authors:
Judith Lansink, Mark Seiger, Beer Lichtenberg
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define a Meditative Living Environment

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles elegantly blend with cross-laminated timber panels, creating a serene environment that prioritizes mindfulness and community engagement within a thoughtfully crafted living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances fire resistance while providing a unique visual texture.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels were chosen for their renewable properties and structural integrity.
03
A bent A-frame design allows for enhanced natural light and open interior spaces.
04
Meditative spaces are integrated throughout the layout to promote mindfulness and reflection.
05
The project incorporates community gardens, fostering local agriculture and resident engagement.
The architectural project known as 'O'live' serves as a compelling exploration of contemporary architectural design intertwined with principles of sustainability and harmony with nature. This project represents a response to modern living desires while respecting the natural environment, showcasing how architectural elements can foster well-being and community engagement. The design is characterized by its strong connection to the landscape, utilizing materials and forms that reflect the organic qualities of the surrounding environment.

Functionally, the 'O'live' project accommodates a variety of living experiences, providing spaces that cater to both communal activities and private reflection. It is designed to facilitate interactions among residents while also offering opportunities for solitude and personal time. The layout of the project incorporates living and dining areas that are strategically positioned to maximize natural light and views. This not only enhances the ambiance within these spaces but also encourages a sense of togetherness among residents.

Central to the project’s design philosophy is a commitment to biophilic design principles. Large glass panels are thoughtfully integrated throughout the architecture, permitting unobstructed views of the lush surroundings and creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. This connection to nature is further emphasized by the choice of materials, which includes local timber, natural stone, and red clay tiles. These materials convey warmth, durability, and a tactile character that resonates with residents, fostering a deeper connection to their living environment.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project, particularly in the incorporation of spaces dedicated to mindfulness and social celebration. The inclusion of meditation areas allows residents to find tranquility amid the busyness of daily life, while tasting areas encourage exploration of local cuisine and agriculture. This combination of spaces highlights the project’s intent to promote not only physical comfort but also emotional and psychological well-being.

A thoughtful arrangement of spaces addresses the various aspects of life, offering an environment that supports both social interactions and individual activities. The project champions flexibility in its design, accommodating changing lifestyles and preferences. The careful consideration of placement and orientation of structures ensures thermal comfort and promotes sustainability, minimizing energy consumption through passive design strategies.

As a holistic architectural embodiment of well-being, the 'O'live' project stands as a testament to the potential of architecture to improve quality of life while remaining deeply attuned to ecological principles. Each design choice is intentional, reflecting a desire to elevate the human experience through thoughtful architecture. The project invites an exploration of the delicate balance between built environments and the natural world, making it a valuable point of reference for those interested in sustainable architectural practices.

For a deeper understanding of the 'O'live' project, including architectural plans, sections, and additional design elements, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation in detail. Engaging with these materials can provide further insights into the innovative architectural ideas that define this unique endeavor.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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